Warm-Weather Shellfish Advisory

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As warm weather approaches, the Florida Department of Health in Escambia County (FDOH-Escambia) urges residents and visitors to protect against foodborne illness by avoiding the consumption of raw or undercooked oysters and other shellfish.

Naturally-occurring bacteria in warm coastal seawater becomes more abundant in the summer months and can concentrate in the tissues of oysters and other shellfish. According to CDC, an oyster that contains harmful bacteria does not look, smell, or taste different from any other oyster. When a person eats raw or undercooked shellfish, the bacteria that may be present in the shellfish can cause illness.

Individuals who become ill from eating raw or undercooked shellfish may develop symptoms, such as diarrhea, abdominal cramping, nausea, vomiting, fever, and chills. Persons with weakened immune systems or other medical conditions may experience more severe symptoms.

“Each year, we see cases of foodborne illness resulting from eating raw or undercooked seafood, particularly raw oysters,” said FDOH-Escambia Director, John J. Lanza, MD, PhD, MPH, FAAP. “I cannot stress enough the importance of enjoying oysters and other seafood that are properly handled and cooked.”